Science & Media Awards
I am delighted to have been invited to join the final jury of the 2024 edition of the SILBERSALZ Science and Media Awards, to judge finalist entries in the categories of Best Factual Documentary and Best Nature Program. As an advocate for the role of the Arts in raising awareness and understanding of science and STEM more generally, and with a life-long love of science and nature programs, it was a great pleasure to view the work of the world’s leaders in the field.
Though the business of judging finalists in any film and media awards is typically tough, the calibre of the entries in the Best Factual Documentary and Best Nature Program categories of the SILBERSALZ awards made the task especially hard. Both creatively and technically that standard was exceptional and was a testament to the vital role film and media makers are playing in science communications worldwide. In particular, the standard of the storytelling and narration was outstanding, which was no small achievement given that all entries dealt with issues of frontier science and complex issues at the interface of human and non-human systems.
Having spent a couple of days viewing and carefully assessing the merits of the respective finalists, my votes have now been cast. However, I would like to congratulate every finalist in these two categories, and in the awards overall. Every team behind every finalist entry deserves high praise. I wasn’t just impressed by the various works, I was moved by them - moved to see the creative and communications heights that can be reached when talents from across the sciences and STEM, and the arts and humanities collaborate. Not one, but all the finalist entries deserve global distribution deals of the kind that make the documentaries and documentary series accessible to audiences young and old and far and wide.
For those that would like a sneak peak of the finalist entries, find trailers for a handful at the links that follow:
About SILBERSALZ
“What are the questions facing science? What answers could help us to live together more peacefully and waste fewer resources? What will the earth look like in the future? SILBERSALZ brings science and media topics to life for all senses with gripping films, exciting discussions, and walk-in installations - as an international festival for the public and as a conference for those who work in research, film, or the media industry.
With this unique combination of festival and conference programmes, current issues become easy to understand. For researchers, film, and media professionals, SILBERSALZ offers a platform for mutual inspiration.
Are you enthusiastic or skeptical about research? Are you younger or older? Do you have very little background knowledge or have you been researching for years? Are you curious? Be part of it! SILBERSALZ takes place every year in Halle (Saale). Admission is free.
Where does the name SILBERSALZ come from?
300 years ago, Johann Heinrich Schulze published his discovery in Halle (Saale): the photosensitivity of Silbersalze. Only then was photography and film made possible - science and media, the perfect match! The basis of our festival.
Their discoverer, Johann Heinrich Schulze, grew up as a half-orphan and received accommodation and training at the Halle Orphanage. The founder August Hermann Francke wanted to improve the educational situation of the people. The buildings of the old school town continue to exist, and the Franckesche Foundation, which bears his name, is still committed to accessible education today.”
Find out more about the awards and festival here.